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It's Time for Peel Region to Get Public Works Working Again!

CUPE 966 Formally Requests Resumption of Talks with Region to End Strike

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 11, 2012) - Negotiators for Local 966 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 966) today have formally requested a resumption of bargaining with the Region of Peel.

"The longer this dispute drags on, the greater the risk to residents of the region," said Local 966 Vice-President Michel Revelin.

"Just last week, there were two major water main breaks. We continue to have serious questions around whether the level of maintenance is adequate to ensure public safety," he added.

Public Works employees went on strike on June 4, after the Region of Peel refused to negotiate a fair collective agreement. In addition to maintaining and servicing all regional water mains, the 282 Public Works members also operate the region's community recycling centres, perform mechanical work on the region's fleet vehicles, inspect and service fire hydrants, maintain and operate water pump and treatment stations and ensure the region's drinking water is safe.

"Our members are still out because the region has chosen to dictate, rather than negotiate. There are a few outstanding issues on the table that need to be dealt with, but we can't do this work without a willing partner at the bargaining table. This dispute can't end until both parties get serious about bargaining. That is why we formally requested a resumption of negotiations today," said Revelin.

Local 966 is prepared to resume bargaining on short notice. The Region of Peel has indicated to the Union that they will respond with available dates in the near future.